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No generation is just a single dimension or can be defined by a single thing. However, there are certain trends with every generation, and our newest to tackle the business world is no different. I am in constant awe and amazement at the levels of intelligence and poise possessed of so many millennials entering the workforce today.
Having attended conferences where I have listened to them present, seen them in action at companies across the country, or worked alongside of them on projects, there is a level of sophistication that did not present itself for years with my generation.

(Although, to be fair, that was because we all sat around in coffee houses, draped in way too much flannel, debating Nirvana lyrics, and deciding whether Ticketmaster was evil or just greedy.)

But, in spite of growing up in the midst of a great technological leap forward, millennials have a fatal flaw - a weakness in your armor - and that is a lack of perspective. This generation is great at gaining an in-depth understanding of every topic happening within a certain time frame. Mobile devices, texts, RSS feeds, and a wealth of social media, combined with 24-hour news feeds, means you can know everything about everything as long as it was

happening right now.

To use a favorite Seinfeld-ism, "Not that there is anything wrong with that." However, lacking the ability to put all that data into context and to synthesize it into smarter, more informed decisions is what keeps holding you back. It is the difference between "knowledge" and "wisdom."

History Repeats

The decisions in your field or discipline that you are facing today have already happened. The names, the details, or the particulars change, but the problems and potential solutions have been addressed since well before you were born. With enough study in any particular area, you will see that similar patterns continuously emerge. For example, there is always a business disruptor who shakes us from the comfortable into something new and slightly uncomfortable. We adapt, and then it becomes stale until a new disruptor comes along. Rinse and repeat. Sound familiar?

Think our recession is new? You only need to go back to Fitzgerald's "Jazz Age,” followed by The Great Depression, followed by global conflict and WWII to see similarities from our glut in the 90's, recession, and increase in global turmoil today. You saw a similar scenario play out in the ‘70s. Can history predict the future? Alas, no; there is no crystal ball here, but how we behave and react to the world is pretty consistent - it is hardwired. Seeing the patterns helps to help us make smarter decisions. This is why some really smart folks put their money in bonds in 2007, and why some VCs know where to invest in the next new technology disruptor.

Do you want the seat at the table to help make smart decisions (or just be able to make them yourself)? Do you want that kind of power and authority as part of your future? Better start now. That kind of knowledge is not going to present itself to you on your favorite social platform.

History vs. Trivia

Are you the wiz kid when it comes to 80's night at the bar trivia contest? Trivia is fun, and does have a place in your future career longevity. Trivia can be the sugar-free sprinkles on your organic, rainforest-saving yogurt swirl. That little bit extra! Having an understanding of trivia and cultural references can make you more relatable to those around you from different generations; it can denote an encyclopedic mind; and it can showcase a well-thought out idea. Be careful of trivia, however. All trivia and no substance won’t help advance your career aspirations.

It is unlikely that knowing who was Captain Kangaroo, which Loverboy song has the best lyrics, or which Kenny Rogers movie was best will help you other than winning a bar bet. Trivia has a small role to play, but know the difference between what has historical significance and trivia. (For those playing along at home, the answers to the above are beloved morning children's show host, "Working for the Weekend," and lastly . . . it is a trick question - there is no "best" Kenny Rogers movie.)

A Well-Read Mind

Interested, but not sure where to start? First, begin with a little light history. Read A History of Knowledge: Past, Present, and Future by Charles Van Doren, or A Really Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson, or go really old school and read H.G. Wells brilliant A Short History of the World. As you read, jot down what you find interesting - what piqued your interest. Those moments are the alignment of your head and your heart telling you where to go. Don't ignore those impulses - they seldom lead you astray. The idea is to start somewhere and let that lead you to the next thing, and the next thing. (Interestingly enough, Charles Van Doren was the contestant caught up in the “Quiz Show Scandal” and immortalized in the move Quiz Show by Ralph Fiennes. Now there is some trivia for you!)

Second, find publications in your discipline that provide analysis of situations, and not just straight reportage. Pubs like The Economist, The New Yorker, Forbes, or Harvard Business Review are great places to start, but certainly not the only ones. They can add some insight into relevant events and will lead you to some interesting places.

Lastly, develop a mentor relationship with others from other generations on projects and initiatives. Your job it two-fold: you want to learn as much as you can from those people. It is also your job to help them see your perspective and your views on both the tactics and strategy. This is absolutely a two-way street. Those that don’t see that will do so at their peril.

Having some insight into our human history and adding some perspective to your decision making will not only make you wiser, but will help to truly distinguish you from the herd of others who also went to "leadership camp" when they were 8 or who built their first app when they were 15. I - for one - will look forward to finding you, and working with you some day.

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Interested in going deeper on multigenerational management principles, you may want to check out Brad Szolllose’s book, Liquid Leadership. You can also follow Todd on Twitter @toddmwilms or connect on LinkedIn as I continue to offer up perspective and some Facts of Life-esque wisdom!